Optimizing double-slope solar distiller productivity via recyclable waste metal: experimental approach and 4E analysis

Abstract

Abstract One of the superior, realistic traditions to moderate water shortage is the utilization of a solar distiller, but one of its drawbacks is its low productivity and efficiency. Consequently, this study designed a double-slope solar system (DSS) incorporating recyclable waste metal as heat storage materials. Metal trash is produced from metalworking procedures in factories and workshops and is readily available, disposed of, or repurposed. These metals have high thermal conductivity, which keeps a portion of the absorbed solar energy through high solar intensity before discharging it throughout cloudy periods. Aluminum, copper, and stainless steel metal wastes are used in different concentrations in solar distiller basins. The weather conditions of Suez City, Egypt, were used to perform the trials. Compared to the traditional distiller of 4360 mL/m 2 per day, the results showed that incorporating metal waste yielded a maximum yield of 7527 mL/day m 2 . The solar still yield is enhanced by about 72.6%, 50.1%, and 39.5% using aluminum, copper, and stainless steel recyclable waste metal, respectively. Also, using recyclable waste metal as sensible heat storage materials in the solar distiller basin increases the thermal energy efficiency from 26.4 to 45.73%. In addition, the exergy efficiency improved by 128%, and the price of one liter of fresh water was reduced by 44%. The modified solar still also reduces CO 2 emissions by 30.24 tons.